Hawaii Marijuana FAQs

Is marijuana legal in Hawaii?

Medical marijuana has been legal in Hawaii since 2000, however, recreational marijuana is not currently legal in the state. Medical marijuana is only legal for qualified patients who have registered with the state.

Is recreational marijuana available in Hawaii?

No, recreational marijuana is not legal in Hawaii.

How do I get a medical marijuana card in Hawaii?

In order to obtain medical marijuana in Hawaii, you must first register with the state of Hawaii and obtain a registration certificate from the Hawaii Narcotics Enforcement Division. You must have a qualifying medical condition to register.

Does insurance cover medical marijuana in Hawaii?

Unfortunately, insurance does not currently cover any medical marijuana expenses due to marijuana’s federally-illegal status.

Can I smoke cannabis in public in Hawaii?

No, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public, even if you are a registered medical patient. Cannabis must be smoked out of public view within the confines of a private property or residence.

Where can I consume cannabis in Hawaii?

You may consume cannabis within a private property that is out of view from the public. It is illegal to consume cannabis anywhere else. Only medical patients registered with the state of Hawaii may consume cannabis legally.

Are medical marijuana dispensaries open in Hawaii?

Yes they are! The state of Hawaii has issued a certain allotment of licenses to dispensaries, of which several are currently open to qualified patients. For a complete list of Hawaii dispensaries that are currently open, click here.

When will medical marijuana dispensaries be open in Hawaii?

Medical cannabis dispensaries are currently open in Hawaii!

Can I grow my own medical marijuana in Hawaii?

Yes, registered patients or their designated caregivers are allowed to cultivate medical cannabis for themselves in the state of Hawaii.

How many marijuana plants can I grow in Hawaii?

If you are a registered patient, you are allowed to grow an adequate supply of marijuana for yourself. This amount may not exceed ten plants and you must only grow the plants in your private residence or the residence of a designated caregiver.

How many medical marijuana patients are there in Hawaii?

As of November 2015, the Hawaii Department of Health reported that they had registered 12,630 medical marijuana patients.

Can I possess and consume marijuana in Hawaii without a medical marijuana card?

No. For people without a Hawaii medical marijuana card, it is still illegal to possess marijuana of any amount.

What is the punishment for possessing marijuana without a medical marijuana card in Hawaii?

Possession of less than one pound is a misdemeanor in Hawaii, with a maximum penalty of one year in jail and up to a $2,000 fine. Possessing one pound or more, without intent to distribute, is a felony charge with up to five years in jail and a $10,000 fine. Those arrested with five pounds or more may face up to twenty years in prison and a $50,000 fine. Possession with intent to distribute within 750 feet of a school or park, or within ten feet of a parked school vehicle is considered a felony, and if convicted, carries a five year sentence and a $10,000 fine.